A man who spiked candy with sleeping medication and gave them to children at a youth camp in Leicestershire has admitted sexual offenses against two children both nine and 10.
Jon Ruben was detained after eight minors and one adult became sick at Stathern Lodge in July.
The 76-year-old, from the Nottinghamshire area, confessed to a multiple criminal counts when he appeared at the judicial center on recently.
Yet, he refused to admit one particular crime he was accused of, which was involving a nine-year-old boy.
The defendant was remanded in custody ahead of a additional proceeding on 28 November.
'Treat game'
The prosecutor, presenting evidence, outlined Ruben's offending to the court.
She stated his those affected were children from difficult backgrounds who were participating in a youth camp which he ran.
Ruben played a "candy game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor explained, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and tell them to ingest treats "as fast as possible".
She informed the proceedings the defendant had played this game with the children "for many years", and children had earlier experienced illness the following morning.
She explained the man had been capable of justifying this repeatedly as the youngsters being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepson had suspicions in summer 2025.
The prosecutor continued: "This year his stepson had concerns about the situation, with valid cause.
"They decided to have a look in the man's possessions."
The legal counsel stated items including baby oil, Vaseline and medical needles were located, and his family member notified the law enforcement about his suspicions.
She said the man went on to conduct the "treat game" with six boys that night - July 26th - and they were all ill the following morning.
"Authorities" had not gone out by that stage," she stated further.
The police watchdog, the investigative body, had stated that it was reviewing law enforcement's management of the situation.
The prosecutor stated the youngsters were having difficulty walking due to their sickness, so Ruben's stepson contacted the police a second time.
She said Ruben then engaged in the "sweet game" in a space of five youngsters.
